Duke Ellington

Birth Name:

Edward Kennedy Ellington

Birth Place:

Washington, District of Columbia, United States

Profession

Soundtrack, Actor, Music department, Director

In 1962, he received the German Film Award for Best Film Score
In 1969, he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom
Received an honorary degree in music from Wilberforce University
Received the 1973 Legion of Honor award from France
Before becoming a composer, he worked as a soda jerk in a cafe
Quote: "My men and my race are the inspiration of my work․ I try to catch the character and mood and feeling of my people․"
Was best known for his work as a bandleader at the Cotton Club

1957Film Award in Silver - Best Film Score (Beste Filmmusik):Winner
1959Grammy - Best Soundtrack Album, Background Score - Motion Picture or Television:Winner
1962Oscar - Best Music, Scoring of a Musical Picture:Nominated
1962Grammy - Best Soundtrack Album or Recording of Score from Motion Picture or Television:Nominated

Fast Facts